Ka Ikena a ka Hawaii: Toward a Kanaka Oiwi Critical Race Theory

• In Event: 46.057 - Toward Justice for Indigenous Peoples: Research on Language and Cultural Revitalization

Abstract

The ways in which we have conducted research falls along the philosophical vein, “ma ka hana ka ʻike” – that is, in doing/work there is knowledge. It reflects our kupuna’s infinite wisdom in truly understanding that careful observation, practice, and reflection are integral to refining praxis. Our higher educational praxis as student affairs scholar-practitioners has underscored the need for culturally-based educational frameworks and models to understand and fully articulate Kanaka Oiwi educational experiences. Inspired by the moolelo of our Kanaka Oiwi participants’ journeys through higher education and Critical Race Theory (CRT) and its application to educational research, we have put forth themes for a Kanaka Oiwi CRT.

Authors

• Erin K. Wright, University of Hawaii

• Brandi Jean Nalani Balutski, University of Hawaii